I've sensed from these boards that people generally write their 250s on "academic" topics -- human rights, history, thesis papers, politics, law and mirrors, etc.

Has anyone gotten into Yale with a 250 that discussed a personal experience and what you learned from it? My resume/PS are so heavy with academic-y type things that I figured I'd make good use out of the 250 by discussing a memorable experience with a completely unrelated long-term hobby that has nothing to do with law.

I know the Yale blog says writing on a hobby is fine, but is it REALLY? Has anyone actually had success in writing on strictly a hobby (not a hobby+academic, though shout-out to trapeze-oral history artist guy, that's effin' awesome)?

Wasn't there an interview a while back with a faculty member or someone involved with admissions at Yale who said the 250 has never actually made a difference in whether or not someone is accepted or rejected?

bees wrote:Wasn't there an interview a while back with a faculty member or someone involved with admissions at Yale who said the 250 has never actually made a difference in whether or not someone is accepted or rejected?

bees wrote:Wasn't there an interview a while back with a faculty member or someone involved with admissions at Yale who said the 250 has never actually made a difference in whether or not someone is accepted or rejected?

Somebody confirm? I can't believe that story.

Perhaps someone said this, but it can't be true. Ordinarily, three faculty members evaluate a candidate for admission, each awarding up to four points. The faculty members are free to choose whatever criteria they see appropriate. Some likely value the 250 greatly. Others, less so.

I think only a select group is actually sent to the faculty. Perhaps for the initial cut the 250 does not matter at all. That would be efficient and make sense.

Maybe instead of never I should have said almost never. Again I'm not positive about this I just felt like I read it in an article that was linked to on this site. It might be best for everyone to assume I'm spreading harmful rumors and to continue to work diligently on their 250s.